Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

BPH is a common disorder in men over 50 years old with nearly 80% of men between 70 and 90. As old cells are constantly being turned over by new cells, the ratio of new prostate cells to old cells decreases with age and changes in hormones. With older cells, the prostate enlarges and obstructs the urethra which impedes the normal passage of urine from the bladder causing difficult urination and straining to empty the bladder. Risk stratification variables include symptom severity, prostate volume, and PSA levels. These variables also help guide the treatment and management of BPH.